Is a visa required for entry into Namibia?

by lawrence | Oct 28, 2023 | News | 206 comments

Welcome to Namibia, one of the world’s youngest and most sparsely populated nations. Its diverse landscapes, breathtaking Atlantic coastline, captivating wildlife, and ancient deserts make it an ideal destination for travelers seeking unique experiences.

To facilitate its thriving tourism industry, Namibia offers a relatively hassle-free entry process. Many nationalities, including citizens from various countries in southern Africa, Europe, the USA, UK, Australia, and New Zealand, can enter without a visa for short visits. For those requiring a visa, applications can be made on arrival or in advance through Namibian consulates or the Ministry of Home Affairs.

Here’s a comprehensive guide on Namibia’s visa regulations, including types, fees, and application procedures.

Visa Requirements: Over 50 countries allow their citizens to enter Namibia visa-free for stays up to 90 days for tourism or various purposes, excluding employment. The Namibian Ministry of Home Affairs provides a detailed list of visa-exempt countries and general visa information. Upon arrival, visitors receive a free Visitor’s Entry Permit stamped in their passports, usually valid for up to 90 days.

Travelers from countries not exempt from visas can apply for a visa on arrival (costing around US$50 for a three-month, single-entry visa) at Windhoek’s Hosea Kutako International Airport. Alternatively, visas can be applied for through Namibian embassies in respective countries, taking about two weeks for processing. Ensure your passport remains valid for at least six months after your arrival and contains three blank endorsement pages.

Traveling with Children: Namibia is a wonderful family destination. Traveling with children under 18 requires certified copies of their birth certificates. If accompanied by only one parent, certified consent from the other parent or proof of sole custody is necessary. Families with adopted children should carry related legal documentation to prevent any issues during travel.

Extending Your Stay: Should the allure of Namibia compel you to stay longer, you can apply for a visa extension (costing approximately US$40) at the Namibian Ministry of Home Affairs in Windhoek, provided your stay hasn’t exceeded 90 days. However, extensions aren’t routinely granted, so plan your desired stay duration from the outset.

Working in Namibia: Namibia doesn’t offer working holiday visas but provides work visas for short-term employment (up to six months) and employment permits for longer-term work. Applications should be made well in advance via the Ministry of Home Affairs website. However, a Digital Nomad Visa is available for stays up to six months.